Common Causes Of Nail Fungus – Do You Suffer From This Itchy Infection?

Who Suffers From Nail Fungus?

Approximately 12% of Americans suffer from some type of nail fungus, with toenail fungus being the most common among sufferers.  Toenail fungus is more common and more difficult to treat because it’s caused by a fungus which thrives in a moist dark place.

Causes of Nail Fungus

There are many causes of nail fungus.  Fungus can be caused by wearing the wrong shoes or shoes that are too tight.  Persistently wearing the same shoes daily may put you at a higher risk for toenail fungus.

Fungus can enter in through small cuts.  Obviously you want to keep your nails trimmed, however, keeping them trimmed too short can allow for small cuts which fungus may enter into.  Also, if you do have small cuts on your toes or fingers, be leery of public places which may harbor fungi.  Places to avoid are public restrooms, swimming pools and lockers.

If your work environment allows your feet and hands to be constantly damp, this may also be the cause of a fungal infection.  Keep your hands and feet as dry as possible and wear protective gloves and be sure to change your socks often.

Women who keep their fingernails painted may also be a target for nail fungus, as the paint does not allow the nail to breathe, which may cause moisture to be trapped underneath the nails, creating an environment for fungus to thrive in.

Symptoms of Nail Fungus

Discolored nails are often the first sign of nail fungus.  They may be yellow, black or brown and can have white patches.  The nail will eventually become dry, cracked and brittle with a bad smell emanating from them.  Toenail fungus can also cause the nail shape to change or separate from the nail bed.  Nails infected with a nail fungus often times are very painful and uncomfortable and if left untreated, symptoms may worsen or spread.

Treatment and Prevention for Nail Fungus

Make sure the shoes you’re wearing a comfortable and aren’t too tight.  Keep your feet clean and make sure you dry them thoroughly after washing with soap and water.  Keep your nails trimmed, but try not to trim them too short.  Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, pool areas and locker rooms.  If you’re visiting these areas, be sure to wear sandals or slippers.  Disinfect your nail clippers with rubbing alcohol regularly.

Following these guidelines may seem like common sense, but not everyone follows them, so it’s important for you to protect yourself.  Doing so will help you prevent nail fungus. 

If you do end up getting some type of nail fungus, treatment options may vary depending on the extent of your infection.  For really bad infections, you may need to go to the doctor, but some over the counter and home treatment remedies may do the trick.